Anatomy of the basic unit of the nervous system, the neuron

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In 4 or 5 sentences, describe the anatomy of the basic unit of the nervous system, the neuron. Include each part of the neuron and a general overview of electrical impulse conduction, the pathway it travels, and the net result at the termination of the impulse. Be specific and provide examples.
Answer the following (listing is acceptable for these questions):
What are the major components that make up the subcortical structures?
Which component plays a role in learning, memory, and addiction?
What are the two key neurotransmitters located in the nigra striatal region of the brain that play a major role in motor control?
In 3 or 4 sentences, explain how glia cells function in the central nervous system. Be specific and provide examples.
The synapse is an area between two neurons that allows for chemical communication. In 3 or 4 sentences, explain what part of the neurons are communicating with each other and in which direction does this communication occur? Be specific.
In 3–5 sentences, explain the concept of “neuroplasticity.” Be specific and provide examples.

Sample Solution

  • Cell body: The cell body contains the nucleus and other organelles.
  • Dendrites: The dendrites are the branched projections that receive signals from other neurons.
  • Axon: The axon is the long projection that carries signals away from the cell body.
  • Terminal buttons: The terminal buttons are the end of the axon, where signals are released.

When a neuron is stimulated, an electrical impulse is generated in the cell body. This impulse travels down the axon to the terminal buttons. At the terminal buttons, the impulse causes the release of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that cross the synapse and bind to receptors on the next neuron. This process continues until the signal reaches its destination.

The major components of the subcortical structures are:

  • Thalamus: The thalamus is a relay station for sensory information, such as sight, hearing, and touch.
  • Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is involved in a variety of functions, including body temperature regulation, hunger, thirst, and emotions.
  • Basal ganglia: The basal ganglia are involved in movement, learning, and memory.
  • Amygdala: The amygdala is involved in emotions, such as fear and aggression.
  • Hippocampus: The hippocampus is involved in learning and memory.

The hippocampus is the subcortical structure that plays a role in learning, memory, and addiction. It is involved in the formation of new memories and the consolidation of memories into long-term storage. The hippocampus is also involved in the reward pathway, which is involved in addiction.

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